Tuesday, Feb. 17, 1998

Women face symptoms of syndrome each month

Editor's Note: This is the first story in a three-part series about premenstrual syndrome. This story focuses on symptoms of PMS.

By MEREDITH O'DONNELL
Collegian Staff Writer

According to medical research, anywhere from a few to most University women suffer cramps, bloating, cravings, mood swings, anxiety, depression, migraines or irritability each month.

Simply, any number of female students suffer from premenstrual syndrome.

"It is estimated that between 20 and 50 percent of all women of child-bearing age experience some symptoms of PMS," said Gretchen Leffler, student director of the sexual health division of HealthWorks.

Among medical researchers, there is much debate as to the number of women who experience PMS -- estimates range from 2.5 to 80 percent.

"I get moody -- I cry about everything. Even if I get an A on a test, I'll still cry."

- Jacy De Mario (junior-finance)

PMS can begin at the time of ovulation and last until the onset of the menstrual flow, said Jill Buchanan, certified nurse registered practitioner for Women's Health at University Health Services.

"The cause of PMS is relatively unknown," Buchanan said.

A number of different theories are being researched as to what causes PMS, Buchanan added, which include progesterone abnormalities, endocrine functions and nutrition deficiencies.

In addition, PMS has a variety of symptoms that affect many women, Buchanan said.

"There are over 100 different reported symptoms," Buchanan said.

Mood swings are one of the biggest problems for several University women.

"I get moody -- I cry about everything," Jacy De Mario (junior-finance) said. "Even if I get an A on a test, I'll still cry."

Increased emotional sensitivity is also a problem for Jessica Israel (senior-human development and family studies).

"The stupidest thing will set me off and put me in a bad mood," Israel said.

Depression can also be a problem, Marcie Tomina (junior-marketing) said.

"During my period I just want to lay down and sleep all day," Tomina said. "I think when you're under stress, it makes the time a lot worse."

When PMS becomes a serious problem medical treatment should be sought, Buchanan said.

"Some women experience PMS in a way that significantly impacts their lives," she added.

The most important factor is to determine whether the problem is PMS-related or the result of some larger problem, Buchanan said.

Extreme symptoms can often warn of something more serious, said Dr. Michele Manting-Brewer, who practices at OB-GYN Alternatives, 611 University Drive.

"If (symptoms) are happening three weeks out of the month, it is not PMS," Manting-Brewer said.

In addition, recognizing that PMS is a valid problem can help, Buchanan said.

"I think that there are a lot of jokes out there about PMS," she said. "It's really helpful for someone to take (women) seriously about it."